“The Mate X was always going to come later than Samsung’s Galaxy Fold, but the Korean phone-maker’s problems have certainly given Huawei more breathing space,” said Ben Wood from CCS Insight.

“There is little doubt Huawei will have learned lessons from Samsung’s problems and – given the extra scrutiny the Mate X will get as a result – Huawei is well advised to ensure it has every eventuality covered.”

Huawei has also scrapped a new laptop launch this week because of its current position on a US trade blacklist.

It is accused of having committed bank fraud to evade Iran sanctions, and obstruction of justice, among other violations.